--- title: Deposit Return Systems (DRS) – Design, Technology & Best Practices description: "Learn how modern DRS systems work, how to design efficient sorting facilities, and discover best practices from Norway.\nDeposit Return System, DRS sorting facility, PET bottle recycling, recycling infrastructure" image: https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hubfs/Graphics/Front_Page_Head_02.png --- [Skip to main content](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/deposit-return-systems-drs-design-technology-best-practices#main-content) [![NRS\_Primærlogo\_lys bakgrunn](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hubfs/NRS_Logos/NRS_Prim%C3%A6rlogo_lys%20bakgrunn.svg) ![NRS\_Logo\_NRS\_Sirkel\_BW](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hs-fs/hubfs/NRS_Logos/NRS_Logo_NRS_Sirkel_BW.png?width=30&height=30&name=NRS_Logo_NRS_Sirkel_BW.png) ![NRS\_Primærlogo@3x](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hs-fs/hubfs/NRS_Logos/NRS_Prim%C3%A6rlogo@3x.png?width=70&height=35&name=NRS_Prim%C3%A6rlogo@3x.png) ![NRS\_Logo\_NRS\_Sirkel\_BW](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hs-fs/hubfs/NRS_Logos/NRS_Logo_NRS_Sirkel_BW.png?width=30&height=30&name=NRS_Logo_NRS_Sirkel_BW.png)](https://www.nordic-recycling.com?hsLang=en) - Show submenu for Systems & Solutions Systems & Solutions - [Sorting systems](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/sorting-systems-.-solutions) - [Robotics](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/robotics) - [Bottle Compaction](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/compaction) - Show submenu for AirConveying AirConveying - [Retail AirConveying](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/retail) - [Industrial AirConveying](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/airconveying) - [Compaction](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/compaction) - [DeWatering](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/dewatreing) - Show submenu for Consulting & DRS Design Consulting & DRS Design - [How to design a DRS](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/deposit-return-systems-drs-design-technology-best-practices) - [Service & Aftermarket](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/service) - Show submenu for Contact Contact - [Contact](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/contact) - [Team](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/team) Open main navigation Close main navigation - Show submenu for Systems & Solutions Systems & Solutions - Systems & Solutions - [Sorting systems](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/sorting-systems-.-solutions) - [Robotics](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/robotics) - [Bottle Compaction](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/compaction) - Show submenu for AirConveying AirConveying - AirConveying - [Retail AirConveying](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/retail) - [Industrial AirConveying](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/airconveying) - [Compaction](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/compaction) - [DeWatering](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/dewatreing) - Show submenu for Consulting & DRS Design Consulting & DRS Design - Consulting & DRS Design - [How to design a DRS](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/deposit-return-systems-drs-design-technology-best-practices) - [Service & Aftermarket](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/service) - Show submenu for Contact Contact - Contact - [Contact](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/contact) - [Team](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/team) - - - - - - # Deposit Return System How Modern DRS Facilities Work # Infinitum Case Study: Infinitum operates one of the most efficient DRS systems in the world. ### **Highlights:** - Return rate above 95% - Nationwide infrastructure - Highly automated sorting facilities - Clean material streams ready for recycling This demonstrates what is achievable with the right system design and operational strategy.   ![\_MG\_5765-Forbedret-NR](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Pictures/_MG_5765-Forbedret-NR.jpg?width=2000&height=1334&name=_MG_5765-Forbedret-NR.jpg) # Design, Technology & Best Practices Deposit Return Systems (DRS) are rapidly becoming a cornerstone of modern recycling infrastructure. As countries across Europe and globally implement or expand deposit schemes, the need for efficient, scalable, and automated sorting solutions has never been greater. At Nordic Recycling Systems, we specialize in designing and delivering high-performance DRS sorting facilities tailored for both retail and industrial environments. # What is a Deposit Return System (DRS)? A Deposit Return System (DRS) is a recycling scheme where consumers pay a small deposit when purchasing beverages, which is refunded when the empty container is returned. DRS is designed to: Increase recycling rates (often above 90%) Ensure high-quality material streams Reduce litter and environmental impact Typical materials handled include: PET bottles Aluminum cans Glass bottles (in some markets) [Talk to us](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/contact?hsLang=en) # How a Modern DRS Facility Works A modern DRS system combines reverse vending machines (RVMs), logistics, and centralized sorting facilities. ### **Process flow:** 1. **Collection** – Containers are returned via RVMs or manual points 2. **Compaction & Transport** – Materials are compacted and transported efficiently 3. **Reception** – Bulk material arrives at the sorting facility 4. **Sorting & Separation** – Automated systems identify and separate materials 5. **Baling & Output** – Materials are prepared for recycling Automation is key to handling high volumes with minimal labor and maximum uptime. ![Skjermbilde 2026-03-17 kl. 13.17.48](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Skjermbilde%202026-03-17%20kl.%2013.17.48.png?width=882&height=674&name=Skjermbilde%202026-03-17%20kl.%2013.17.48.png) ![Steel structure](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Steel%20structure.png?width=1258&height=664&name=Steel%20structure.png) # Design of DRS Sorting Facilities Designing an efficient DRS facility requires a holistic approach. ### **Key design considerations:** - Throughput capacity (tons/hour) - Material mix (PET, cans, glass) - Redundancy and uptime requirements - Footprint and layout optimization - Integration with existing infrastructure At Nordic Recycling Systems, we focus on modular and scalable designs that allow future expansion.   # Common Challenges in DRS Facilities Even well-designed systems face operational challenges:   **Typical issues include:** Bottlenecks in material flow Contamination in material streams High manual handling requirements Downtime due to mechanical failures Inefficient logistics between retail and sorting   Addressing these challenges requires both smart engineering and robust technology.     # Technologies Used in Modern DRS Systems Modern DRS facilities rely on advanced technologies to ensure efficiency and accuracy. **Core technologies include:** Optical sorting (NIR and camera-based system Air transport systems for material handling Automated bag openers and feeding systems Compaction and baling solutions Data tracking and system monitoring - Our solutions integrate these technologies into a seamless, high-performance system.     # Best Practices Norway is considered a global benchmark for DRS performance, with return rates exceeding 95%. **Key success factors:** - Strong system integration (retail → logistics → sorting) High level of automation Standardized processes across the value chain Reliable infrastructure with minimal downtime These principles form the foundation of our system designs.   [Talk to us](https://www.nordic-recycling.com/contact?hsLang=en) **Step-by-step approach: 1\. Needs assessment & feasibility study** **2. Concept design and layout development** **3. Technology selection** **4. Engineering & project planning** **5. Installation and commissioning** **6. Optimization and scaling** Working with an experienced partner ensures reduced risk and faster time to operation. # How to Build a New DRS Facility Building a new DRS facility requires careful planning and execution.   # Why Nordic Recycling Systems We deliver end-to-end DRS infrastructure solutions: 1. **Engineering and design Technology integration** 2. **Installation and commissioning** 3. **Optimization and upgrades** Our focus is on high throughput, reliability, and future-ready systems. # Looking to develop or upgrade your DRS infrastructure? > Contact Nordic Recycling Systems to discuss your project and explore how we can support your next-generation recycling facility. 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